DARREN HURLEY returns from a two-match ban tonight, insisting that Bracknell Bees can still make the Superleague's Championship play-off semi-final weekend.

Bees visit London Knights (7pm face-off), seeking to end a 10-game losing streak that has left them bottom of the table.

And with just three games left they are now three points adrift of the fourth and final qualification place.

But Hurley said: "We are still in with a shout. Obviously it is going to be tough, but if we stay positive and have the right attitude we can do it."

Bees are due to play London again, this time at home on Saturday, before finishing their play-off campaign at Nottingham Panthers on Sunday.

But to qualify Bees will still need Sheffield Steelers to slip up.

The Superleague champions visit Belfast Giants on Thursday before home games with arch rivals Nottingham and Belfast again at the weekend.

Hurley said: "The way Sheffield have been playing anything can happen.

"If they hit a few bumps and we squeak out a few points then, knock on wood, we can overhaul them.

"We have had some success against London in the regular season and will give it everything we have got."

Defenceman Steve O'Rourke, who missed last Sunday's 4-3 home defeat by Nottingham due to an abdominal strain, faces a late fitness test today.

Hurley said: "It is the play-offs and everyone wants to play if they can.

"We are still in with a chance and as long as that is the case you never say never."

M BEES fans have begun a collection to help pay the £450 fine that Hurley also received when he and Belfast's Lee Sorochan were banned for two matches following a bust-up in a game at Bracknell on March 8.